New Patriots Mock Draft Expert Roundup for 1st-Round Pick

After one of the most surprising Super Bowl runs in NFL history, the New England Patriots have to prepare to compete with the best teams in 2026.

They won't have the fortune of capitalizing on a favorable schedule, and the roster needs more difference-makers after being overmatched by the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl.

Ahead of the first round of the draft on April 23, here's a look at what experts are projecting the Patriots will do with the No. 31 pick:

Expert: B/R NFL Scouting Department (3/31)

Selection (No. 31): DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

While this particular selection may be dangled to obtain A.J. Brown, the wide receiver remains a member of the Philadelphia Eagles for now.

Instead, the Patriots use the draft pick to fortify the defensive interior after losing Khyiris Tonga in free agency.

Kayden McDonald was the tip of the spear for the nation's best defense during the 2025 campaign. The Ohio State Buckeyes featured a loaded unit with multiple NFL draft picks at every level, but the 21-year-old set the tone up front.

"A nose tackle from Ohio State, who is physical and nasty against the run, just feels like a Mike Vrabel pick," B/R scout Matt Holder said. "Due to the current construction of the Patriots' defense, McDonald could come in and start from Day 1."

Let's not forget the Seahawks ran for 141 yards and averaged 4.4 yards per carry, with running back Kenneth Walker III winning MVP honors, during Super Bowl LX.

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Expert: Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN (3/17)

Selection (No. 31): WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

Expert: Field Yates, ESPN (3/24)

Selection (No. 31): WR Denzel Boston, Washington

Expert: Matt Miller, ESPN (3/30)

Selection (No. 31): DT Caleb Banks, Florida

Expert: Lance Zierlein, NFL.com (3/31)

Selection (No. 31): OT Caleb Lomu, Utah

Expert: Daniel Jeremiah, NFL.com (3/17)

Selection (No. 31): DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

Expert: Dane Brugler, The Athletic (3/4)

Selection (No. 31): Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson

Expert: Danny Kelly, The Ringer (3/4)

Selection (No. 31): WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

Summary

Adding another playmaker for Drake Maye will be a priority, but this is an excellent defensive-line class. Head coach Mike Vrabel won't hesitate to take a prospect he believes can elevate them in the trenches. After years of underwhelming draft classes, the Patriots have to prove they can build on last year's success with fewer resources.